Washing machine appliance having a selective ventilation damper

ABSTRACT

A washing machine appliance may include a cabinet, a tub, a wash basket, a front ventilation line, and a vent damper. The cabinet may include a front panel. The front panel may define an opening and a cabinet aperture spaced apart from the opening. The tub may be positioned within the cabinet. The wash basket may be rotatably mounted within the tub. The front ventilation line may be in fluid communication with the tub. The front ventilation line may define an air path from an inlet at the cabinet aperture to an outlet in fluid communication with the tub. The vent damper may be positioned along the front ventilation line in fluid communication therewith. The vent damper may be selectively movable between a first position restricting airflow through the front ventilation line and a second position permitting airflow through the front ventilation line.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present subject matter relates generally to washing machine appliances, and more particularly to washing machine appliances having selective ventilation features.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Washing machine appliances generally include a wash tub for containing water or wash fluid (e.g., water, detergent, bleach, or other wash additives). A basket is rotatably mounted within the wash tub and defines a wash chamber for receipt of articles for washing. During normal operation of such washing machine appliances, the wash fluid is directed into the wash tub and onto articles within the wash chamber of the basket. The basket or an agitation element can rotate at various speeds to agitate articles within the wash chamber, to wring wash fluid from articles within the wash chamber, etc.

Some existing washing machine appliances, such as horizontal axis washing machines, are provided with one or more ventilation features. Such features may allow washing machine appliance to exchange air between the wash tub and the ambient environment. The exchange of air may be necessary to prevent moisture from accumulating within the tub. For example, if the tub is not ventilated, mold or mildew may form within the washing machine. In turn, undesirable odors may be generated.

Although ventilation features may ensure that moisture does not accumulate within the washing machine appliance while the washing machine appliance is not in use, such features may provide certain disadvantages. For example, while the washing machine appliance is in use (e.g., during a wash cycle) ventilation features may provide a path through which noise is conveyed or amplified. Generally, noise generated by a washing machine appliance during use is undesirable.

As a result, it would be desirable to provide a washing machine appliance or methods of operation that address one or more of the above identified issues. In particular, it would be useful to vary airflow or minimize noise that is audible to a user outside of the washing machine appliance during certain operations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

In one exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine appliance is provided. The washing machine appliance may include a cabinet, a tub, a wash basket, a front ventilation line, and a vent damper. The cabinet may include a front panel. The front panel may define an opening and a cabinet aperture spaced apart from the opening. The tub may be positioned within the cabinet. The wash basket may be rotatably mounted within the tub. The front ventilation line may be in fluid communication with the tub. The front ventilation line may define an air path from an inlet at the cabinet aperture to an outlet in fluid communication with the tub. The vent damper may be positioned along the front ventilation line in fluid communication therewith. The vent damper may be selectively movable between a first position restricting airflow through the front ventilation line and a second position permitting airflow through the front ventilation line.

In another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine appliance is provided. The washing machine appliance may include a cabinet, a tub, a wash basket, a front baffle, a front ventilation line, a vent damper, and a rear ventilation line. The cabinet may include a front panel. The front panel may define an opening and a cabinet aperture spaced apart from the opening. The tub may be positioned within the cabinet. The wash basket may be rotatably mounted within the tub. The front baffle may extend between the tub and the front panel. The front ventilation line may be in fluid communication with the tub. The front ventilation line may define an intake air path from an inlet at the cabinet aperture to an outlet defined through the baffle in fluid communication with the tub. The vent damper may be positioned along the front ventilation line in fluid communication therewith. The vent damper may be selectively movable between a first position restricting airflow through the front ventilation line and a second position permitting airflow through the front ventilation line. The rear ventilation line may be in fluid communication with the tub. The rear ventilation line may define an output air path from a ventilation inlet within the cabinet and to a ventilation outlet above the ventilation inlet in fluid communication with an ambient environment outside of the cabinet.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.

FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a washing machine appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 provides a cross-sectional side view of the exemplary washing machine appliance of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 provides a front view of the exemplary washing machine appliance of FIG. 1, wherein the door has been removed for clarity.

FIG. 4 provides a magnified, cross-sectional, side view of a portion the exemplary washing machine appliance of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 provides a perspective view of a damper assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 provides a cross-sectional schematic view of the exemplary damper assembly of FIG. 5 in a closed first position.

FIG. 7 provides a cross-sectional schematic view of the exemplary damper assembly of FIG. 5 in an open second position.

FIG. 8 provides a partial perspective view of a washing machine appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 provides a partial perspective view of a washing machine appliance according to other exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 provides a partial perspective view of a washing machine appliance according to further exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 provides a partial perspective view of a washing machine appliance according to still further exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 provides a flow chart of a method of operating a washing machine appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Within the present disclosure, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). The terms “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one element from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual elements. The terms “upstream” and “downstream” refer to the relative flow direction with respect to fluid flow in a fluid pathway. For example, “upstream” refers to the flow direction from which the fluid flows, and “downstream” refers to the flow direction to which the fluid flows.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary washing machine appliance 100. FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of washing machine appliance 100. FIG. 3 provides a front view of washing machine appliance 100, wherein a door 134 (FIG. 2) has been removed for clarity. As illustrated, washing machine appliance 100 generally defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T, each of which is mutually perpendicular, such that an orthogonal coordinate system is defined. Washing machine appliance 100 includes a cabinet 102 that extends between a top 104 and a bottom 106 along the vertical direction V, between a left side 108 and a right side 110 along the lateral direction L, and between a front 112 and a rear 114 along the transverse direction T.

A wash tub 124 is positioned within cabinet 102 and is generally configured for retaining wash fluids during an operating cycle. As used herein, “wash fluid” may refer to water, detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable wash additive or combination thereof. Wash tub 124 is substantially fixed relative to cabinet 102 such that it does not rotate or translate relative to cabinet 102.

A wash basket 120 is received within wash tub 124 and defines a wash chamber 126 that is configured for receipt of articles for washing. More specifically, wash basket 120 is rotatably mounted within wash tub 124 such that it is rotatable about an axis of rotation A. According to the illustrated embodiments, the axis of rotation A is substantially parallel (e.g., within 30°) relative to the transverse direction T. In this regard, washing machine appliance 100 is generally referred to as a “horizontal axis” or “front load” washing machine appliance 100. However, it is noted that the illustrated embodiments are provided merely as non-limiting examples and the present disclosure may be applicable to any other suitable washing machine appliance configuration.

Wash basket 120 may define one or more agitator features that extend into wash chamber 126 to assist in agitation and cleaning articles disposed within wash chamber 126 during operation of washing machine appliance 100. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, a plurality of ribs 128 extends from basket 120 into wash chamber 126. In this manner, for example, ribs 128 may lift articles disposed in wash basket 120 during rotation of wash basket 120.

Washing machine appliance 100 includes a motor assembly 122 that is in mechanical communication with wash basket 120 to selectively rotate wash basket 120 (e.g., during an agitation or a rinse cycle of washing machine appliance 100). According to the illustrated embodiments, motor assembly 122 is a pancake motor. However, it should be appreciated that any suitable type, size, or configuration of motor may be used to rotate wash basket 120 according to alternative embodiments.

Cabinet 102 also includes a front panel 130 that defines an opening 132, which generally permits user access to wash basket 120 of wash tub 124. More specifically, washing machine appliance 100 includes a door 134 that is selectively positioned over opening 132 and is rotatably mounted to front panel 130 (e.g., about a door axis that is substantially parallel to the vertical direction V). In this manner, door 134 permits selective access to opening 132 by being movable between an open position (see e.g., FIG. 8) facilitating access to a wash tub 124 and a closed position (see e.g., FIG. 1) prohibiting access to wash tub 124. In exemplary embodiments, a lock assembly 182 is fixed to cabinet 102 to selectively lock or hold a free end of the door 134 to cabinet 102 when door 134 is in the closed position (e.g., during certain operations or wash cycles).

In some embodiments, a central body 136 of door 134 is provide on a perimeter rim 135 that extends about (e.g., radially about) at least a portion of central body 136. In optional embodiments, central body 136 is provided as a window and permits viewing of wash basket 120 when door 134 is in the closed position (e.g., during operation of washing machine appliance 100). Generally, door 134 defines a footprint 170 on a front portion of cabinet 102 (e.g., in a plane defined by the lateral direction L and the transverse direction T). For instance, when door 134 is in the closed position, central body 136 and perimeter rim 135 may extend across footprint 170 and thus cover the area of the front panel 130 within footprint 170 (e.g., when viewed along the transverse direction T directly in front of washing machine appliance 100). As shown, particularly in FIG. 3, footprint 170 may extend radially outward from opening 132. Thus, footprint 170 may encompass and define a larger width (e.g., diameter) than opening 132. In some such embodiments, central body 136 extends across and, optionally, within opening 132. Perimeter rim 135 may extend radially outward from opening 132 and define the radial extrema of footprint 170.

In certain embodiments, central body 136 is provided as a non-permeable body, which blocks or prevents wash fluid or air from passing therethrough. In alternative embodiments, central body 136 defines one or more air aperture therethrough. Additionally or alternatively, door 134 may also include a handle (not shown) that, for example, a user may pull when opening 132 and closing door 134. Further, although door 134 is illustrated as mounted to front panel 130, it should be appreciated that door 134 may be mounted to another side of cabinet 102 or any other suitable support according to alternative embodiments.

A front gasket or baffle 138 may extend between tub 124 and the front panel 130 about the opening 132 covered by door 134, further sealing tub 124 from cabinet 102. For example, when door 134 is in the closed position, baffle 138 may contact central body 136 in sealing engagement therewith and within footprint 170.

As shown, wash basket 120 defines a plurality of perforations 140 in order to facilitate fluid communication between an interior of basket 120 and wash tub 124. A sump 142 is defined by wash tub 124 at a bottom of wash tub 124 along the vertical direction V. Thus, sump 142 is configured for receipt of, and generally collects, wash fluid during operation of washing machine appliance 100. For example, during operation of washing machine appliance 100, wash fluid may be urged (e.g., by gravity) from basket 120 to sump 142 through plurality of perforations 140. A pump assembly 144 is located beneath wash tub 124 for gravity assisted flow when draining wash tub 124 (e.g., via a drain 146). Pump assembly 144 may also be configured for recirculating wash fluid within wash tub 124.

In some embodiments, washing machine appliance 100 includes an additive dispenser or spout 150. For example, spout 150 may be in fluid communication with a water supply (not shown) in order to direct fluid (e.g., clean water) into wash tub 124. Spout 150 may also be in fluid communication with the sump 142. For example, pump assembly 144 may direct wash fluid disposed in sump 142 to spout 150 in order to circulate wash fluid in wash tub 124.

As illustrated, a detergent drawer 152 may be slidably mounted within front panel 130. Detergent drawer 152 receives a wash additive (e.g., detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable liquid or powder) and directs the fluid additive to wash chamber 126 during certain operations or wash cycle phases of washing machine appliance 100. According to the illustrated embodiment, detergent drawer 152 may also be fluidly coupled to spout 150 to facilitate the complete and accurate dispensing of wash additive.

In optional embodiments, a bulk reservoir 154 is disposed within cabinet 102. Bulk reservoir 154 may be configured for receipt of fluid additive for use during operation of washing machine appliance 100. Moreover, bulk reservoir 154 may be sized such that a volume of fluid additive sufficient for a plurality or multitude of wash cycles of washing machine appliance 100 (e.g., five, ten, twenty, fifty, or any other suitable number of wash cycles) may fill bulk reservoir 154. Thus, for example, a user can fill bulk reservoir 154 with fluid additive and operate washing machine appliance 100 for a plurality of wash cycles without refilling bulk reservoir 154 with fluid additive. A reservoir pump 156 is configured for selective delivery of the fluid additive from bulk reservoir 154 to wash tub 124.

In some embodiments, a control panel 160 including a plurality of input selectors 162 is coupled to front panel 130. Control panel 160 and input selectors 162 may collectively form a user interface input for operator selection of machine cycles and features. For example, in exemplary embodiments, a display 164 indicates selected features, a countdown timer, or other items of interest to machine users.

Operation of washing machine appliance 100 is generally controlled by a controller or processing device 166. In some embodiments, controller 166 is in operative communication with (e.g., electrically or wirelessly connected to) control panel 160 for user manipulation to select washing machine cycles and features. In response to user manipulation of control panel 160, controller 166 operates the various components of washing machine appliance 100 to execute selected machine cycles and features.

Controller 166 may include a memory (e.g., non-transitive memory) and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with a wash operation. The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor. Alternatively, controller 166 may be constructed without using a microprocessor (e.g., using a combination of discrete analog or digital logic circuitry, such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software. Control panel 160 and other components of washing machine appliance 100, such as motor assembly 122, a fan 198, and a vent damper 210, may be in operative communication with controller 166 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses. Additionally or alternatively, other features, such as an electronic lock assembly 182 for door 134 may be in operative communication with controller 166 via one or more other signal lines or shared communication busses.

In exemplary embodiments, during operation of washing machine appliance 100, laundry items are loaded into wash basket 120 through opening 132, and a wash cycle is initiated through operator manipulation of input selectors 162. For example, a wash cycle may be initiated such that wash tub 124 is filled with water, detergent, or other fluid additives (e.g., via additive dispenser 150 during a fill phase). One or more valves (not shown) can be controlled by washing machine appliance 100 to provide for filling wash basket 120 to the appropriate level for the amount of articles being washed or rinsed. By way of example, once wash basket 120 is properly filled with fluid, the contents of wash basket 120 can be agitated (e.g., with ribs 128) for an agitation phase of laundry items in wash basket 120. During the agitation phase, the basket 120 may be motivated about the axis of rotation A at a set speed (e.g., first speed or tumble speed). As the basket 120 is rotated, articles within the basket 120 may be lifted and permitted to drop therein.

After the agitation phase of the washing operation or wash cycle is completed, wash tub 124 can be drained (e.g., through a drain phase). Laundry articles can then be rinsed (e.g., through a rinse phase) by again adding fluid to wash tub 124, depending on the particulars of the wash cycle selected by a user. Ribs 128 may again provide agitation within wash basket 120. One or more spin phases may also be used. In particular, a spin phase may be applied after the wash cycle or after the rinse cycle in order to wring wash fluid from the articles being washed. During a spin phase, basket 120 is rotated at relatively high speeds. For instance, basket 120 may be rotated at one set speed (e.g., second speed or pre-plaster speed) before being rotated at another set speed (e.g., third speed or plaster speed). As would be understood, the pre-plaster speed may be greater than the tumble speed and the plaster speed may be greater than the pre-plaster speed. Moreover, agitation or tumbling of articles may be reduced as basket 120 increases its rotational velocity such that the plaster speed maintains the articles at a generally fixed position relative to basket 120.

After articles disposed in wash basket 120 are cleaned (or the wash cycle otherwise ends), a user can remove the articles from wash basket 120 (e.g., by opening door 134 and reaching into wash basket 120 through opening 132).

In some embodiments, a rear ventilation line 190 is provided within washing machine appliance 100. In particular, rear ventilation line 190 may be enclosed within cabinet 102. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, exemplary embodiments include rear ventilation line 190 at a position in fluid communication between tub 124 and the surrounding region (e.g., the ambient environment outside of or immediately surrounding cabinet 102, the enclosed volume of cabinet 102 surrounding tub 124, etc.). Generally, it is understood that rear ventilation line 190 may be provided as any suitable pipe or conduit (e.g., having non-permeable wall) for directing air therethrough. When assembled, rear ventilation line 190 defines an air path (e.g., an output air path 192) from tub 124 and within or through cabinet 102 (e.g., to the ambient environment outside of cabinet 102). Specifically, output air path 192 extends from a ventilation inlet 194, through cabinet 102, and to a ventilation outlet 196. In some embodiments, ventilation inlet 194 is defined through a top portion of wash tub 124 and ventilation outlet 196 is defined through an upper portion of cabinet 102. Thus, output air path 192 may extend from the top portion of tub 124 to an upper portion of cabinet 102. Optionally, ventilation inlet 194 may be positioned below ventilation outlet 196 along a vertical direction V. Advantageously, a convective airflow may be naturally motivated from wash tub 124, through output air path 192, and to the ambient environment. Additionally or alternatively, splashing of wash fluid and the collection of moisture within output air path 192 may be prevented. However, any other suitable configuration may be provided to facilitate the flow of air from tub 124 and, for example, to the ambient environment.

Although a convective airflow may be facilitated, optional embodiments further include a fan or blower 198 (indicated in phantom lines). Specifically, fan 198 may be provided in fluid communication with rear ventilation line 190 to motivate an active airflow therethrough. For instance, fan 198 may be mounted within rear ventilation line 190 to selectively rotate and draw air from wash tub 124, through ventilation inlet 194, and to ventilation outlet 196 (e.g., to output an airflow from tub 124 to the ambient environment).

In certain embodiments, a front ventilation line 200, separate and spaced apart from rear ventilation line 190, is provided in fluid communication with wash tub 124. For instance, front ventilation line 200 may be any suitable pipe or conduit in fluid communication (e.g., upstream fluid communication) with wash tub 124 and rear ventilation line 190. As shown, in exemplary embodiments, front ventilation line 200 extends from front panel 130 to wash tub 124. When assembled, front ventilation line 200 defines an air path (e.g., intake air path 208) from front panel 130 to wash tub 124 (e.g., upstream of output air path 192). Specifically, intake air path 208 extends from an intake inlet 202, through cabinet 102, and to an intake outlet 206. In some embodiments, A cabinet aperture 204 may be defined through front panel 130 as intake inlet 202. Thus, intake air path 208 may extend from front panel 130 to, for example, a top portion of tub 124. Optionally, intake inlet 202 may be positioned above intake outlet 206 along a vertical direction V.

Turning especially in FIGS. 2, 3, and 8, in some embodiments, cabinet aperture 204 is defined within the footprint 170 of door 134. Thus, when door 134 is in the closed position, cabinet aperture 204 may be generally covered and hidden from view. As shown, even though door 134 is in the closed position, a gap 254 may be defined between at least a portion of door 134 and cabinet aperture 204 to permit an ambient airflow 230 from the ambient environment to cabinet aperture 204. In other words, one portion of door 134 (e.g., perimeter rim 135) may be spaced apart from cabinet aperture 204 while another portion of door 134 (e.g., central body 136) blocks opening 132 and contacts baffle 138.

In additional or alternative embodiments, one or more secondary apertures 256 (FIG. 1—shown in phantom lines) may be defined through door 134 (e.g., through perimeter rim 135 along the transverse direction T) and in alignment with cabinet aperture 204. In such embodiments, air may pass between secondary aperture 256 and cabinet aperture 204 (e.g., from the ambient environment) when door 134 is in the closed position.

Although exemplary embodiments may provide cabinet aperture 204 and intake inlet 202 within the footprint 170 of door 134 above opening 132, it is noted that alternative embodiments may include cabinet aperture 204 and intake inlet 202 at another suitable location. For instance, as shown in FIG. 9, other exemplary embodiments may provide one or more intake inlets 202 even with or laterally adjacent to the mid-point of opening 132 (e.g., along the lateral direction L). Optionally, two intake inlets 202 may be provided on opposite lateral sides of opening 132. An ambient airflow 230 may thus flow from an area beside opening 132 (or footprint 170) before entering tub 124 at intake outlet 206. As shown in FIG. 10, further exemplary embodiments may provide one or more intake inlets 202 above opening 132 and footprint 170. An ambient airflow 230 may thus flow from an area fully above door 134, before entering tub 124 at intake outlet 206. As shown in FIG. 11, still further exemplary embodiments may provide one or more intake inlets 202 below opening 132 or footprint 170. An ambient airflow 230 may thus flow from an area below door 134, before entering tub 124 at intake outlet 206.

Notably, in the disclosed embodiments, air (e.g., an ambient airflow 230) may flow between tub 124 and the ambient environment through cabinet aperture 204 even while door 134 remains closed. For instance, air may be motivated through the air paths 192, 208 and tub 124 by convective airflow or by fan 198 in fluid communication with the ventilation lines 190, 200.

Turning especially to FIGS. 2, 4 and 5, a vent damper 210 is provided to selectively control an airflow between tub 124 and, for example, the ambient environment. Generally, vent damper 210 is in communication with wash tub 124 (e.g., in fluid communication with the air paths 192, 200). In certain embodiments, vent damper 210 is enclosed, at least in part, within cabinet 102. For instance, vent damper may be positioned along front ventilation line 200. As will be described in detail below, vent damper 210 may be selectively controlled or operated to limit the flow of air through front ventilation line 200 (e.g., and thereby through rear ventilation line 190, output air path 192, or intake air path 208) during certain operations, phases, or cycles. Thus, vent damper 210 may selectively limit airflow between tub 124 and the ambient environment.

When front ventilation line 200 is unobstructed (e.g., when vent damper 210 is in an open second position), air may flow to/from tub 124 between front ventilation line 200 and rear ventilation line 190. In other words, an airflow circuit with the ambient environment may be formed by the lines 190, 200 and tub 124. Moreover, when one line (e.g., front ventilation line 200 or rear ventilation line 190) is obstructed, the other line (e.g., rear ventilation line 190 or front ventilation line 200) may permit pressure within tub 124 to equalize relative to the ambient environment.

Turning especially to FIGS. 6 and 7, various views are provided of a damper assembly (e.g., vent damper 210) according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Generally, vent damper 210 may include a rigid, non-permeable housing or chute 212. Chute 212 may define an opening 214 to selectively permit air therethrough and communicate with rear ventilation line 190 (e.g., via front ventilation line 200—FIG. 5). Thus, chute 212 may extend about opening 214, and opening 214 may extend through chute 212. In certain embodiments, an interior lip 216 extends radially inward from chute 212 toward opening 214 (e.g., coaxial or concentric with opening 214), thus defining a perimeter (or perimeter portion) of opening 214.

In certain embodiments, restrictor plate 218 is configured to move between a discrete first position and second position. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the first position generally restricts airflow through opening 214 (e.g., and thereby through front ventilation line 200 or rear ventilation line 190). In the first position, restrictor plate 218 may extend across opening 214. By contrast, and as illustrated in FIG. 7, the second position may generally permit airflow through opening 214 (e.g., and thereby through front ventilation line 200 or rear ventilation line 190). In the second position, restrictor plate 218 may be moved away from opening 214.

In certain embodiments, a resilient foam layer 220 is provided on restrictor plate 218. For instance, resilient foam layer 220 may be fixed to a surface of restrictor plate 218 between opening 214 and restrictor plate 218 (e.g., relative to or along front ventilation line 200). When restrictor plate 218 is in the first position, resilient foam layer 220 may contact at least a portion of chute 212. For instance, resilient foam layer 220 may be positioned in contact with interior lip 216. Optionally, resilient foam layer 220 may be at least partially compressed against chute 212, sealing front ventilation line 200 to prevent air from passing through opening 214. It is understood that resilient foam layer 220 may be provided as any suitable resilient or elastic foam material that can be compressed before returning to its uncompressed state or shape.

In exemplary embodiments, a motor 222 is mechanically coupled to non-permeable restrictor plate 218. Motor 222 may be attached at any suitable location on or near chute 212 to move restrictor plate 218 relative to opening 214. For instance, motor 222 may be configured to selectively rotate restrictor plate 218 about the pivot access P. Moreover, motor 222 may be provided as any suitable electromechanical device (e.g., gear assembly, solenoid, actuator, etc.) for moving restrictor plate 218 or holding restrictor plate 218 in a directed position. In certain embodiments, motor 222 is in operative communication with (e.g., electrically or wirelessly connected to) controller 166. Controller 166 may be configured to direct motor 222 to move or hold restrictor plate 218 in a selected position (e.g., according to a selected wash cycle or phase). In other words, controller 166 may be configured to move or rotate vent damper 210 between the first position and the second position.

Referring now to FIG. 12, various methods may be provided for use with washing machine appliances in accordance with the present disclosure. In general, the various steps of methods as disclosed herein may, in exemplary embodiments, be performed by the controller 166 (FIG. 1), which may receive inputs and transmit outputs from various other components of the appliance 100 (FIG. 1). In particular, the present disclosure is further directed to methods, as indicated by reference number 600, for operating a washing machine appliance 100, as described above. Such methods advantageously facilitate selectively limiting the audible noise transmitted outside of washing machine appliance (e.g., outside of cabinet 102 in the surrounding ambient environment) during a wash cycle.

As shown in FIG. 12, at 610, the method 600 includes receiving a user input at the washing machine appliance. For instance, the controller may receive a signal in response to user command provided at the user interface (e.g., to activate the washing machine appliance from a sleep state, select a wash cycle, etc.). Optionally, a wash cycle may be initiated, as discussed above. Additionally or alternatively, the door the washing machine appliance may be locked or unlocked (e.g., at the lock assembly) depending on the received user input.

At 620, the method 600 includes determining a noise state of the washing machine appliance following receiving the user input (i.e., following 610). Moreover, 620 may be based on (or otherwise contingent upon) the user input at 610.

As an example, the noise state may generally correspond to the initiation or completion of a wash cycle. In some such embodiments, 620 includes determining initiation of a wash cycle (i.e., when a wash cycle has begun or is otherwise imminent) such that significant noise can be expected from within the washing machine appliance. In additional or alternative embodiments, 620 includes determining completion of a wash cycle (i.e., when a wash cycle has ended) such that significant noise is no longer being generated by the basket motor, water valves, or basket within the washing machine appliance. Optionally, the method 600 may include multiple noise state determinations. For instance one noise state determination may be made upon determining initiation of a wash cycle, while another noise state determination may be made upon determining completion of the wash cycle.

As another example, the noise state may generally correspond to one or more sub-portions or phases of a wash cycle during which significant noise is expected. In some such embodiments, 620 includes determining initiation of an audible phase of the wash cycle (i.e., when an audible phase has begun, is beginning, or is otherwise imminent). In additional or alternative embodiments, 620 includes determining completion of an audible phase of a wash cycle (i.e., when an audible phase has ended) such that significant noise is no longer being generated by the basket motor, water valves, or basket within the washing machine appliance. The audible phase may include one or more of the fill phase, agitation phase, or spin phase, as discussed above. Optionally, the method 600 may include multiple noise state determinations. For instance one noise state determination may be made upon determining initiation of an audible phase of a wash cycle, while another noise state determination may be made upon determining completion of the audible phase of the wash cycle.

As yet another example, the noise state may generally correspond to a standby condition or a wake condition. Generally, the standby condition may be provided as a low-power state wherein at least a portion of washing machine appliance (e.g., the user interface or the display) is inactive, such as after a predetermined amount of time during which no user input is received and no wash cycle is being performed. The wake condition may be provided as a condition that prompts the washing machine appliance out of a standby condition (e.g., engagement of a predetermined user input at the input selectors). In some such embodiments, 620 includes determining a wake condition is met. For instance, determining the wake condition is met may include determining that the washing machine appliance has received a user input prompting the washing machine appliance to activate one or more elements that were rendered inactive during a standby condition. In additional or alternative embodiments, 620 includes determining a standby condition is met. For instance, determining that the standby condition is met may include determining that the washing machine appliance has deactivated one or more elements in response to a predetermined time period of non-use. Optionally, the method 600 may include multiple noise state determinations. For instance one noise state determination may be made upon determining a wake condition is met, while another noise state determination may be made upon determining a standby condition is met.

As still another example, the noise state may generally correspond to a lock condition or unlock condition for the door of the appliance (e.g., at the lock assembly). Generally, the lock condition may hold door in the closed position as the lock assembly secures the door to the cabinet. The unlock condition may permit the door to move between a closed position and an open position as the lock assembly releases a free end of the door from the cabinet. In some such embodiments, 620 includes determining a lock condition is met. For instance, determining the lock condition is met may include determining that the lock assembly has been or is actively being directed to hold the door of washing machine appliance closed (e.g., against the cabinet). In additional or alternative embodiments, 620 includes determining an unlock condition is met. For instance, determining that the unlock condition is met may include determining that the lock assembly has been or is actively being directed to release the free end of the door from the cabinet. Optionally, the method 600 may include multiple noise state determinations. For instance one noise state determination may be made upon determining a lock condition is met, while another noise state determination may be made upon determining an unlock condition is met.

At 630, the method 600 includes directing the vent damper between a first position and a second position based on the determined noise state, as described above.

As an example, if the noise state corresponds to the wash cycle, the vent damper may be directed accordingly. In some such embodiments, 630 includes placing the vent damper in the first position (e.g., moving the vent damper to or holding the vent damper at the first position) in response to initiation of the wash cycle. In additional or alternative embodiments, 630 includes placing the vent damper in the second position (e.g., moving the vent damper to or holding the vent damper at the second position) in response to completion of the wash cycle.

As another example, if the noise state corresponds to the audible phase, the vent damper may be directed accordingly. In some such embodiments, 630 includes placing the vent damper in the first position (e.g., moving the vent damper to or holding the vent damper at the first position) in response to initiation of the audible phase. In additional or alternative embodiments, 630 includes placing the vent damper in the second position (e.g., moving the vent damper to or holding the vent damper at the second position) in response to completion of the audible phase.

As yet another example, if the noise state corresponds to the wake condition or standby condition, the vent damper may be directed accordingly. In some such embodiments, 630 includes placing the vent damper in the first position (e.g., moving the vent damper to or holding the vent damper at the first position) in response to the wake condition being met. In additional or alternative embodiments, 630 includes placing the vent damper in the second position (e.g., m moving the vent damper to or holding the vent damper at the second position) in response to the standby condition being met.

As still another example, if the noise state corresponds to the door lock condition or door unlock condition, the vent damper may be directed accordingly. In some such embodiments, 630 includes placing the vent damper in the first position (e.g., moving the vent damper to or holding the vent damper at the first position) in response to the door lock condition being met. In additional or alternative embodiments, 630 includes placing the vent damper in the second position (e.g., moving the vent damper to or holding the vent damper at the second position) in response to the door unlock condition being met.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A washing machine appliance comprising: a cabinet including a front panel, the front panel defining an opening and a cabinet aperture spaced apart from the opening; a tub positioned within the cabinet; a wash basket rotatably mounted within the tub; a front ventilation line in fluid communication with the tub, the front ventilation line defining an air path from an inlet at the cabinet aperture to an outlet in fluid communication with the tub; and a vent damper positioned along the front ventilation line in fluid communication therewith, the vent damper being selectively movable between a first position restricting airflow through the front ventilation line and a second position permitting airflow through the front ventilation line.
 2. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, wherein the vent damper comprises a non-permeable restrictor plate movably mounted along the front ventilation line to block the air path in the first position.
 3. The washing machine appliance of claim 2, wherein the vent damper further comprises a resilient foam layer fixed to the non-permeable restrictor plate to seal the air path in the first position.
 4. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, further comprising: a motor mechanically coupled to the non-permeable restrictor plate; and a controller in operative communication with the motor, wherein the controller is configured to direct the motor to selectively move the vent damper between the first position and the second position.
 5. The washing machine appliance of claim 4, wherein the controller is configured to direct the motor to place the vent damper in the first position in based on a determined noise state.
 6. The washing machine appliance of claim 4, wherein the controller is configured to direct the motor to place the vent damper in the second position based on a determined noise state.
 7. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, further comprising: a fan positioned in fluid communication with the front ventilation line to motivate an airflow therethrough.
 8. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, further comprising: a door movably attached to the cabinet to move between an open position permitting access to the opening and a closed position restricting access to the opening, the door defining an air aperture in upstream fluid communication with the cabinet aperture in the closed position.
 9. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, further comprising: a front baffle extending between the tub and the front panel; and a door movably attached to the cabinet to move between an open position permitting access to the opening and a closed position restricting access to the opening, the door comprising a central body and a perimeter rim extending outward from the central body, wherein the central body is in selective contact with the front baffle in the closed position, wherein the cabinet aperture is covered within a footprint of the door in the closed position, and wherein the perimeter rim is radially spaced apart from the cabinet aperture in the closed position to permit an ambient airflow to the cabinet aperture.
 10. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, further comprising: a front baffle extending between the tub and the front panel, wherein the front baffle defines the outlet as a radial aperture in fluid communication between the cabinet aperture and the tub.
 11. The washing machine appliance of claim 1, further comprising: a rear ventilation line in fluid communication with the tub, the rear ventilation line defining an output air path from a ventilation inlet within the cabinet to a ventilation outlet in fluid communication with an ambient environment outside of the cabinet.
 12. A washing machine appliance comprising: a cabinet including a front panel, the front panel defining an opening and a cabinet aperture spaced apart from the opening; a tub positioned within the cabinet; a wash basket rotatably mounted within the tub; a front baffle extending between the tub and the front panel; a front ventilation line in fluid communication with the tub, the front ventilation line defining an intake air path from an inlet at the cabinet aperture to an outlet defined through the baffle in fluid communication with the tub; a vent damper positioned along the front ventilation line in fluid communication therewith, the vent damper being selectively movable between a first position restricting airflow through the front ventilation line and a second position permitting airflow through the front ventilation line; and a rear ventilation line in fluid communication with the tub, the rear ventilation line defining an output air path from a ventilation inlet within the cabinet and to a ventilation outlet above the ventilation inlet in fluid communication with an ambient environment outside of the cabinet.
 13. The washing machine appliance of claim 12, wherein the vent damper comprises a non-permeable restrictor plate movably mounted along the front ventilation line to block the air path in the first position.
 14. The washing machine appliance of claim 13, wherein the vent damper further comprises a resilient foam layer fixed to the non-permeable restrictor plate to seal the air path in the first position.
 15. The washing machine appliance of claim 12, further comprising: a motor mechanically coupled to the non-permeable restrictor plate; and a controller in operative communication with the motor, wherein the controller is configured to direct the motor to selectively move the vent damper between the first position and the second position.
 16. The washing machine appliance of claim 15, wherein the controller is configured to direct the motor to place the vent damper in the first position based on a determined noise state.
 17. The washing machine appliance of claim 15, wherein the controller is configured to direct the motor to place the vent damper in the second position based on a determined noise state.
 18. The washing machine appliance of claim 12, further comprising: a fan positioned in fluid communication with the front ventilation line to motivate an airflow therethrough.
 19. The washing machine appliance of claim 12, further comprising: a door movably attached to the cabinet to move between an open position permitting access to the opening and a closed position restricting access to the opening, the door defining an air aperture in upstream fluid communication with the cabinet aperture in the closed position.
 20. The washing machine appliance of claim 12, further comprising: a door movably attached to the cabinet to move between an open position permitting access to the opening and a closed position restricting access to the opening, the door comprising a central body and a perimeter rim extending outward from the central body, wherein the central body is in selective contact with the front baffle in the closed position, wherein the cabinet aperture is covered within a footprint of the door in the closed position, and wherein the perimeter rim is radially spaced apart from the cabinet aperture in the closed position to permit an ambient airflow to the cabinet aperture. 